Learn to Play Acoustic Guitar - adult education class

Course overview

The guitar is one of the most popular musical instruments to learn. Inexpensive to buy and extremely versatile, it has long been the mainstay for popular music, whether folk, jazz or rock and pop.

Open to everyone, this adult education course is ideal for those wishing to learn the acoustic guitar from scratch or to build confidence in early-stage playing.

Taught by acclaimed jazz guitarist Antonio Marzinotto, this course offers an entry-level programme that will help you develop your knowledge and skills in a practical and effective way.

Over two terms, you will develop foundational skills in tuning, strumming, picking techniques, and playing simple chords for popular songs. You will also gain an understanding of scales and chord symbols.

This introductory course is designed for any acoustic guitar and includes styles from pop, rock, blues, and folk music. No previous experience of music is necessary.

We strongly advice you to practice regularly outside of the classroom, even if only for 15 or 20 minutes a day (more if you can!) as this will improve your playing very rapidly.

Special equipment needed

You will need an acoustic guitar for the sessions. Advice on purchasing a suitable instrument will be given on request. We also advice you to have short nails to play properly.

Term dates

•  Spring Term: week beginning 12 January 2026 until week ending 20 March 2026

•  Summer Term: week beginning 27 April 2026 until week ending 3 July 2026

Any questions?

If you have any questions about the content or teaching of this course please contact the Programme Manager for Imperial after:hours, Dr Michael Paraskos: m.paraskos@imperial.ac.uk

If you have any questions about enrolment please contact the Imperial after:hours Administrator, Christian Jacobi: c.jacobi@imperial.ac.uk

Class recordings

These classes are not recorded.

Imperial certificates

There are no examinations or assessments for this course. However, attendance can lead to the award of an Imperial attendance certificate (T&Cs apply).